WO2018122678A1 - Appareil permettant de calibrer et de trier des produits respectifs, en particulier des fruits et des légumes - Google Patents

Appareil permettant de calibrer et de trier des produits respectifs, en particulier des fruits et des légumes Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2018122678A1
WO2018122678A1 PCT/IB2017/058112 IB2017058112W WO2018122678A1 WO 2018122678 A1 WO2018122678 A1 WO 2018122678A1 IB 2017058112 W IB2017058112 W IB 2017058112W WO 2018122678 A1 WO2018122678 A1 WO 2018122678A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
product
holding means
specifically
holding
supporting
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2017/058112
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Stefano CROCIANI
Roberto PROSAPIO
Enrico PROSAPIO
Original Assignee
Ser.Mac S.R.L.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Ser.Mac S.R.L. filed Critical Ser.Mac S.R.L.
Publication of WO2018122678A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018122678A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G47/00—Article or material-handling devices associated with conveyors; Methods employing such devices
    • B65G47/74—Feeding, transfer, or discharging devices of particular kinds or types
    • B65G47/94—Devices for flexing or tilting travelling structures; Throw-off carriages
    • B65G47/96—Devices for tilting links or platform
    • B65G47/962—Devices for tilting links or platform tilting about an axis substantially parallel to the conveying direction
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B07—SEPARATING SOLIDS FROM SOLIDS; SORTING
    • B07C—POSTAL SORTING; SORTING INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES, OR BULK MATERIAL FIT TO BE SORTED PIECE-MEAL, e.g. BY PICKING
    • B07C5/00—Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material being sorted, e.g. by control effected by devices which detect or measure such characteristic or feature; Sorting by manually actuated devices, e.g. switches
    • B07C5/36—Sorting apparatus characterised by the means used for distribution
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B07—SEPARATING SOLIDS FROM SOLIDS; SORTING
    • B07C—POSTAL SORTING; SORTING INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES, OR BULK MATERIAL FIT TO BE SORTED PIECE-MEAL, e.g. BY PICKING
    • B07C2501/00—Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material to be sorted
    • B07C2501/009—Sorting of fruit
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G2201/00—Indexing codes relating to handling devices, e.g. conveyors, characterised by the type of product or load being conveyed or handled
    • B65G2201/02—Articles
    • B65G2201/0202—Agricultural and processed food products
    • B65G2201/0211—Fruits and vegetables

Definitions

  • This invention relates to an apparatus for grading and sorting respective products, in particular fruit and vegetable products.
  • apparatuses for grading and sorting respective products in particular fruit and vegetable products.
  • These apparatuses comprise means for conveying the product along a respective longitudinal feed path of the apparatus.
  • the conveying means comprise respective product supporting means, specifically in the form of product holder cups and respective drive means for driving the supporting means, or cups, in particular in the form of a respective endless, articulated link chain to which the product supporting means, or cups are fixed.
  • the product supporting means or cups generally comprise product holding means, specifically in the form of first and second holding means provided on opposite sides of the drive means, and means for fixing them to the drive means and comprising mounting means for the respective holding means, specifically first and second mounting means for respective first and second product holding means which extend on opposite sides of the drive means, with the product holding means being connected to the fixing means in articulated manner.
  • product holding means specifically in the form of first and second holding means provided on opposite sides of the drive means, and means for fixing them to the drive means and comprising mounting means for the respective holding means, specifically first and second mounting means for respective first and second product holding means which extend on opposite sides of the drive means, with the product holding means being connected to the fixing means in articulated manner.
  • One disadvantage of prior art apparatuses is due to the excessively rough handling which the products undergo when they are unloaded and which can lead to bruising or other damage to the products. In practice, during unloading, the product is propelled into the air and then drops forcefully or it is allowed to drop too quickly and without restraint, with the
  • Another disadvantage of prior art apparatuses concerns the risk that large fruit and vegetable products, when unloaded, get stuck between the cups adjacent to the one carrying the product and which is tipped over to unload the product, leading to problems and obstructions for operating personnel.
  • Another disadvantage of prior art apparatuses concerns the excessive complication or unreliability of the mechanisms which allow the product holding means of the product cups to move relative to the respective means for mounting and fixing to the drive means, with the result that positioning the holding means may be imprecise, requiring manual intervention by operating personnel to obtain precise positioning.
  • a further disadvantage of prior art apparatuses concerns the risk of breaking and having to replace individual cups, especially on account of wear due to friction during cup return travel, especially because the product turning rollers, normally during the return travel rub against corresponding sliding elements which support the cups.
  • This invention therefore proposes a new solution as an alternative to the solutions known up to now and, more specifically, proposes to overcome one or more of the above mentioned drawbacks or problems and/or to meet one or more of the needs felt by the trade and which, in particular, may be inferred from the above.
  • an apparatus for grading and sorting respective products comprising means for conveying the respective product along a respective feed path, in particular longitudinal, of the apparatus, the conveying means comprising respective product supporting means, in particular in the form of a plurality of product holding cups and respective drive means for driving the product supporting means or cups, in particular in the form of an endless chain with articulated links, to which the product supporting means or cups are fixed, the product supporting means or cups comprising product holding means, specifically in the form of first and second holding means provided on opposite sides of the drive means, and means for fixing them to the drive means, in particular comprising mounting means for the respective holding means and means for fastening to the drive means, from which the mounting means extend, the product holding means being connected in articulated manner to the fixing means, in particular to the mounting means; characterized in that the product holding means are pivoted to the means for fixing to the drive means, specifically to the mounting means, so as to be able to move from a first, normal position for supporting and conveying the product to a second
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a part of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus according to this invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment of a detail of the apparatus according to this invention.
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the cup of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention.
  • Figure 3B shows the preferred embodiment of the cup according to the invention, in a perspective view from a different angle from that of Figure 3A;
  • FIG. 3C is a perspective view showing only the product holding means of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention
  • - Figure 3D shows only the product holding means of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention in a perspective view from a different angle from that of Figure 3C;
  • FIG. 3E is a plan view from above showing only the product holding means of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention.
  • FIG. 3F is an elevation showing only the product holding means of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention.
  • FIG. 3G is a longitudinal cross section showing only the product holding means of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention.
  • FIG. 4A shows a side elevation and a longitudinal cross section of only the product holding means in a lowered position for supporting and conveying the product;
  • - Figure 4B shows a side elevation and a longitudinal cross section of only the product holding means in a raised position for weighing the product
  • - Figure 4C shows a side elevation and a longitudinal cross section of only the product holding means in a raised position for rotating the product
  • FIG. 4D shows a side elevation and a longitudinal cross section of only the product holding means in a backward moving return position of the conveying means
  • FIG. 5A is a transverse cross section showing the preferred embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention with the holding means in the normal, product conveying position;
  • FIG. 5B is a transverse cross section showing the preferred embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention with the holding means in the disengaged position of the product unloading rotation stop means;
  • FIG. 5C is a transverse cross section showing the preferred embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention with the holding means in the position where the product unloading rotation starts;
  • FIG. 5D is a transverse cross section showing the preferred embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention with the holding means in the unloading condition;
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the weighing means of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention.
  • the accompanying drawings illustrate a preferred embodiment 10 of an apparatus for grading and sorting respective products, in particular fruit and vegetable products.
  • the apparatus 10 comprises conveying means 12 for conveying the product along a respective longitudinal feed path of the apparatus.
  • the conveying means 12 comprise respective product supporting means 14, especially in the form of a plurality of product holding cups, which are mounted one after the other in the longitudinal direction of feed and which are adapted to carry the products in such a way that in at least some operating situations, the products can rest on cups 14, 14' which are adjacent to each other.
  • respective drive means 18 are provided for driving the supporting means, or cups 14, in particular in the form of a respective endless, chain having articulated links and to which the product supporting means, or cups 14 are fixed.
  • the drive means are movable along a positive, product feed stretch 12a, specifically in an upper zone 10a of the apparatus and a respective return stretch 12b, specifically in a lower zone 10b of the apparatus.
  • the product supporting means or cups 14 comprise product holding means 18, specifically in the form of first and second holding means 18, 18 provided on opposite sides of the drive means 16, and means 20 for fixing them to the drive means 16, in particular comprising mounting means for the respective mounting means 200 for the holding means, specifically first and second mounting means 200, 200, extending on opposite sides of the drive means 16, for respective first and second product holding means.
  • the product holding means 18 are connected in articulated manner to the fixing means, in particular to the respective mounting means 200.
  • the apparatus comprises, in particular in sequence along the feed direction, a singuiating means or station 1 1 for positioning a single product on a respective conveyor cup - it being possible at this stage for the product to rest on the next cup - as well as a means or station 13 for measuring the weight of the product, and a means or station 15 for unloading the product from the conveying means 14.
  • the product holding means 18 are pivoted to the means 20 for fixing to the drive means 16, specifically to the mounting means 200, so as to be able to move from a first normal position "A" for supporting and conveying the product to a second position "B" for dropping and unloading the product from the supporting means or cups, or vice versa.
  • the means 21 for pivoting the product holding means 18 to the fixing means 20, or mounting means 200 are provided vertically at, or substantially vertically at, a barycentre zone, specifically transverse, of the self same holding means 18.
  • the product holding means 18 move towards the second position "B" for dropping and unloading the product from the supporting means or cups, at least partly, or preponderantly, under the effect of gravity only.
  • the product is unloaded with a particularly smooth movement, without the product being accelerated or propelled in an undesirable manner that could lead to bruising.
  • the product holding means 18 move, at least initially, from the normal position A for supporting and conveying the product to the second position B for dropping and unloading the product on an impulse which pushes the holding means 18 in such a way as to move them out of balance, that is, to shift their transverse barycentre from its position of perpendicular or vertical alignment with the pivoting means 21 .
  • the product holding means 18 are pivoted to the fixing means 20, in particular to mounting means 200 thereof, at a lower zone the holding means themselves.
  • the impulse which pushes the holding means 18 in such a way as to move them out of balance, that is, to shift their transverse barycentre from its position of perpendicular or vertical alignment with the pivoting means 21 has at least one transverse component which is imparted to a zone 180 at a certain length or distance from the pivoting means 21 and, in particular, a lower zone 180 of the holding means 18, preferably a zone 180 extending towards the drive means for driving the pivoting means 21.
  • the means 200 for mounting the fixing means 20 extend from the zone of the drive means below the product holding means 18 up to, and preferably beyond, the transverse barycentre zone thereof.
  • the product holding means 18 are pivoted to the fixing means 20 at an end zone 20' of the fixing means 20 themselves, in particular of the mounting means 200 thereof.
  • the product holding means 18 have a respective transverse end 18' which extends beyond the transverse end 200' of the respective mounting means 200 of the fixing means 20 for fixing to the drive means 18.
  • the product holding means 18 rotate about an axis parallel to the direction of extension and feeding of the conveying means 12, that is, parallel to the direction of extension and feeding of the drive means 16.
  • the rotational pivot 21 of the product holding means 18 relative to the mounting means 200 is directed, that is the respective axis is directed, parallel to the direction of extension and feeding of the conveying means 12, that is, parallel to the direction of extension and feeding of the drive means 16.
  • the product holding means 18 extend vertically, or perpendicularly, beyond, in particular in the product feed stretches, above the fixing means 20 for fixing to the drive means 16.
  • the product holding means 18 are disposed vertically, or perpendicularly, beyond, in particular in the product feed stretches, above the drive means 16.
  • the mounting means 200 of the product holding means 18 define means for stopping the rotation of the holding means 18, in particular at the angular end position B for unloading and/or at the angular end position A for supporting and conveying.
  • the holding means 18 comprise movable or rotatabie holding means 181 , in particular in the form of corresponding roller means, preferably comprising a first and a second product rotating roller 182, 182 which are preferably supported by the same rotation shaft 183 and which are transversely spaced from each other.
  • pivoting means of the holding means 18 are vertically, or perpendicularly, at the transverse centre line of the holding means 18, in particular vertically or perpendicularly at the transverse space between the first and second product rotating rollers 182, 182.
  • roller means 181 specifically the first and second rollers 182, 182 for supporting and rotating the product each have a generally conical shape, specifically converging towards the central part of the holding means 18.
  • pivoting means of the holding means 18 are vertically, or perpendicularly, at the transverse centre line of the holding means 18, in particular vertically or perpendicularly at the transverse space between the first and second product rotating rollers 182, 182.
  • the holding means 18 comprise fixed means 19, specifically protruding from the movable holding means 181 and defining therewith cradle-like means on which the product is rested, especially in the form of a fork, preferably comprising a middle prong 191 adapted to be disposed in the space between the rollers 182, 182 of an adjacent cup, and/or transversely opposite first and second lateral or end prongs 192, 193 which are adapted to be disposed at the respective outer sides of the roller means, or respective roller 182, 182 of the adjacent cup.
  • the prongs 192, 193, 191 of the fixed, or fork-like, holding means 19 extend alongside and/or between, specifically alongside and/or between the first and second rollers 182, 182 of the movable holding means 181 .
  • the prongs 191 , 192, 193 of the fixed, or fork-like, holding means 19 are connected to each other by a transverse connecting element 194, specifically comprising a first and a second transverse connecting stretch between the middle prong 191 and the respective lateral or end prongs 192, 193; the transverse element 194 being positioned at or in the vicinity of the outside surface of the respective roller means, that is, of the first and second rollers 182, 182 of the movable holding means 181 .
  • the holding means 18 are movable vertically or perpendicularly from a lowered position for supporting and conveying the product to a raised position for rotating the product and/or to a raised position for weighing the product.
  • the product holding means 18 comprise a base member 185 defining a bottom element 185 along the feed stretch of the apparatus, supporting the movable and/or fixed holding means 19, 181 in articulated manner and which, specifically, is in turn connected in articulated manner, specifically rotatabiy, to the corresponding mounting means 200 of the holding means 18.
  • the base member 185 of the holding means has a respective longitudinal end face which defines a means, or surface 185', 185" for engaging and stopping the rotation of the holding means 18 themselves, specifically at the angular end position "B” for unloading and/or at the angular end position "A” for supporting and conveying, the means, or surface 185', 185" for engaging and stopping the rotation being adapted to engage a corresponding means, or surface, of the respective mounting means 200.
  • the base member 185 of the holding means 18 comprises a base or bottom block 1850 defining respective hole means, or hole, 218 for the pivoting means 21 , the block defining a lateral end surface 185' for engaging and stopping the rotation, and/or from which block 185 there extends a bottom protrusion 1851 which defines an inside surface 185" for engaging and stopping the rotation of the holding means 18 and respectively defining means which are located on the self same holding means 18 and which stop the rotation of the holding means 18, specifically at the angular end position "B” for unloading and/or at the angular end position "A” for supporting and conveying.
  • the base member 185 is positioned longitudinally off-centre relative to the longitudinal centre line of the movable holding means 181 in the direction of the end of the holding means that is defined by the fixed holding means 19 or in which the same are positioned.
  • the base member 185 has a protrusion 1850a which extends from the self same block 1850 in substantially vertical or perpendicular manner and which is inserted in the space between the movable product holding rollers 182, 182 and which has or defines a surface 1850s for engaging and mounting the holding means 19, 181 , at the respective vertical supporting and conveying position, the engagement surface 1850s being preferably provided at the perpendicular or vertical end of the self same protrusion 1850a.
  • the product holding means 18 comprise an element 186 for supporting the fixed and movable holding means 19, 181 which is connected in articulated manner, specifically rotatably, to the base member 185 and which is preferably rofatable about respective pin means 1856 extending transversely to the feed direction of the conveying means 12 and/or of the drive means 16.
  • the pin means 1856 for angularly rotating the supporting element 186 of the fixed and movable holding means 19, 181 relative to the base member 185 are positioned in proximity to a longitudinal end of the holding means 18 and preferably under the fixed or fork-like means 19, that is, specifically, at the transverse element 194 which connects the prongs 191 , 192, 193 of the fixed or fork-like holding means 19.
  • the pin means 1856 for angularly rotating the supporting element 186 of the fixed and movable holding means 19, 181 relative to the base member 185 are located on a portion 1850b of the base member 185 which extends perpendicularly or vertically from the base block, or bottom block, 1850 relative to which it extends longitudinally and inclined with its end in proximity to a longitudinal end of the holding means 18, preferably of the fixed or fork-like holding means 19 thereof.
  • the supporting element 186 of the fixed and movable holding means 19, 181 has opposite lateral or end arms 1862, 1863 which extend alongside the movable product holder roller means 182, 182 and a middle arm 1861 which is disposed in the space between the first and second product holder roller means 182, 182.
  • the supporting element 186 of the fixed and movable holding means 19, 181 has an end crosspiece 186a from which there extend the opposite lateral or end arms 1862, 1863 which extend alongside the movable product holder roller means 182, 182 and the middle arm 1861 which is disposed in the space between the first and second product holder roller means 182, 182 and/or at which there are provided the respective pin means 1856 for rotating the supporting element 186 of the fixed and movable holding means 19, 181 relative to the base member 185.
  • the holding means 18 comprise an element 187 which defines the fixed holding means and which is preferably superposed on, or perpendicularly substantially aligned with, the supporting element 186 and connected thereto in articulated manner, specifically rotatabiy, relative to the respective pin means 1867 which extend transversely relative to the feed direction of the conveying means 12 and/or of the drive means 16.
  • the pin means 1867 for articulating the element 187 which defines the fixed holding means are located on the supporting element 186, specifically on the end arms 1862, 1863 thereof, in particular at the free ends of this opposite to that for connecting the base member 185.
  • the element 187 which defines the fixed holding means 19 is provided with pin means 182p for freely rotating the roller means 182, 182, in particular the pin means 182p being located in proximity to the pin means 1867 for connection to the supporting element 187, that is at an intermediate positon of the lateral or end arms 1872, 1873 of the element 187 which defines the fixed holding means 19.
  • the element 187 which defines the fixed holding means 19 has opposite lateral end arms 1872, 1873 which extend alongside the movable product holder roller means 181 , 182 and which are on the extension of the end or lateral prongs 192, 193 of the self same fixed holding means 19, being in particular superposed on or perpendicularly aligned with the end arms 1862, 1863 of the supporting element 186 thereof.
  • the element 187 also has a middle arm 1871 which is disposed in the space between the first and second holder roller means 182, 182 and on the extension of the middle prong 191 and which is superposed on or substantially perpendicularly or vertically aligned with the middle arm 1861 of the supporting element 186.
  • the lateral end arms 1872, 1873 of the element which defines the fixed holding means 19 define means for holding and sliding on corresponding longitudinal guides of the weighing means, specifically defined by corresponding perpendicular protrusions 187a, 187b of the corresponding lateral end arm 1872, 1873.
  • the holding means 18 are movable vertically or perpendicularly from a lowered position for supporting and conveying the product to a raised position for moving or rotating the product and/or to a raised position for weighing the product.
  • the element 187 which defines the fixed holding means 19 engages and rests on the supporting element 186 through respective facing surfaces, in particular on the underside face 194i of the crosspiece 194 of the defining element 187 and on the top face 188s of the crosspiece 186a of the supporting element 186 and, in particular, engages and rests on the base member 185 through respective surfaces, in particular on the underside face 1871 1 of the middle arm 1871 of the defining element 187 and on the top face of the middle perpendicular protrusion 1850 of the base member 185.
  • the supporting element 186 engages and rests on the base member 185 through respective facing surfaces, in particular on the underside face 1861 1 of the middle arm 1861 of the supporting element and on the top face 1850ss of the inclined longitudinal element 1850b of the base member 185.
  • the element 187 which defines the fixed holding means 19 is perpendicularly raised relative to the supporting element 186 and the supporting element 186 is perpendicularly raised relative to the base member 185.
  • the element 187 which defines the fixed holding means 19 in the raised position for moving or rotating the product, is raised, in particular together with the supporting element 186, relative to the base member 185, being in particular angularly spaced from the base member 185 by the effect of rotation relative to the pin means 1856 for rotating the supporting element 186 relative to the base member 185. More specifically, in the raised position for moving or rotating the product, the element 187 which defines the fixed holding means 19 engages and rests on the supporting element 188 through respective facing surfaces, in particular on the underside face 1941 of the crosspiece 194 of the defining element 187 and on the top face 188s of the crosspiece 186a of the supporting element 186,
  • the supporting element 188 in particular by rotating relative to the mutual connecting pin means 1858, engages and rests on the base member 185, through respective facing surfaces, specifically on the respective face 188x of the crosspiece 188a of the supporting element 186 and on the respective inclined face 185x of the end crosspiece 85t of the base member 185, the pin means 1856 for the rotation of the supporting element 186 relative to the base member 185 being provided at this crosspiece.
  • means are provided to trigger unloading of the products, that is, to trigger the movement of the holding means towards the position "B" for dropping and unloading the product from the supporting means, or cup.
  • the means to trigger unloading of the products that is, to trigger the movement of the holding means towards the position "B" for dropping and unloading the product from the holding means, or cup comprise unloading start means 22, specifically provided on the means 200 for mounting the respective product holding means 18.
  • the unloading start means comprise a lever element 22, which, in particular, can be engaged and tripped by corresponding actuating means of the apparatus, this actuating means not being illustrated in detail in the accompanying drawings.
  • the unloading start means, or lever element, 22 is pivoted at 23 to the mounting means 200 of the holding means 18.
  • the unloading start means, or lever element, 22 protrude downwardly of the mounting means 200, specifically from a middle portion 200c thereof.
  • the means to trigger unloading of the products that is, to trigger the movement of the holding means 18 towards the position "B" for dropping and unloading the product from the holding means 18 themselves comprise means 24 for pushing the holding means 18 towards the position "B" for dropping and unloading the product.
  • the means 24 for pushing the holding means 18 towards the position "B" for dropping and unloading the product define, or are as one with, that is, they extend from, the unloading start means, or lever element, 22.
  • the means 24 for pushing towards the position "B" for dropping and unloading the product are adapted to impart to the product holding means 18 a rotational movement relative to the mounting means 200 towards the outer side of the conveying means.
  • the means 24 for pushing towards the position "B" for unloading the product comprise a movable surface 241 for engaging a corresponding surface 1852' of the holding means 18, specifically of the base member 185 thereof, specifically a lateral protrusion 1852 of the base block 1850, the lateral protrusion 1852 extending from the self same base block 1850 towards the means 201 for fastening to the drive means 18, that is, towards the drive means 18 themselves.
  • the means 24 for pushing towards the product unloading position "B" are pivoted at 23 to the mounting means 200 of the holding means 18 and perform a corresponding angular rotation directed towards the means for fastening to the drive means 16, that is, towards the drive means 16 themselves.
  • means 26 are provided for retaining the holding means 18 in the supporting and conveying position "A".
  • the means 26 for retaining the holding means 18 are located at the mounting means 200 of the product holding means 18, specifically at the middle portion 200c thereof.
  • the means 26 for retaining the holding means 18 in the supporting and conveying position are in the form of means 26 for hooking the holding means 18, specifically a corresponding surface 1853' of the holding means 18, specifically of the base member 185 thereof, specifically a lateral protrusion 1853 of the base block 1850 of the base member 185, the lateral protrusion 1853 extending from the self same base block 1850 towards the means for fastening to the drive means 16, that is, towards the drive means 16 themselves.
  • the means for retaining the holding means 18 in the supporting and conveying position are defined by a hook or tooth-like portion 26 which extends perpendicularly or vertically, and specifically, whose engagement and retaining surface extends horizontally in the respective retaining position.
  • the hook or tooth-like portion 26 has an inclined outside surface 26' for engaging a corresponding inclined surface 8526 for resetting and backward ly pushing the hook or tooth-like portion 26, specifically towards the means for fastening to the drive means 16, that is, towards the drive means 16 themselves, the inclined resetting surface 8526 being provided on the holding means 18, specifically on the base member 185 of the holding means 18 themselves and, more specifically, at the end of the protrusion 1853 which extends laterally from the base block 1850 of the holding means 18 themselves.
  • the retaining means 26 are pivoted at 23 to the mounting means 200 of the holding means 18 and perform a corresponding angular rotation directed towards the means for fastening to the drive means 18, that is, towards the self same drive means 16 so as to release the product holding means 18.
  • the retaining means 26 define, or extend from, that is, are as one with, the unloading start means, or lever element, 22 and/or with the means 24 for pushing towards the product unloading position "B".
  • the pivot or rotation pin 23 of the unloading start means, or lever element, 22 and/or the means 26 for retaining the holding means 18, and/or the means 24 for pushing the holding means 18 towards the product unloading position "B" is at a height or level perpendicularly below that of the rotation pin 21 of the holding means 18.
  • the pivot or rotation pin 23 of the unloading start means, or lever element, 22 and/or the means 26 for retaining the holding means 18, and/or the means 24 for pushing the holding means 18 towards the product unloading position "B" is closer to the means for fastening to the drive means 16, that is, closer to the self same drive means 16, than the rotation pin 21 of the holding means 18.
  • means 27, 8526, 26' are provided for resetting the means 26 for retaining the product holding means 18 in the normal conveying position "A".
  • the resetting means comprise respective elastic means 27.
  • the elastic resetting means push the retaining means 26 away from the means for fastening to the drive means 16, that is, from the self same drive means 16.
  • the resetting means, or tab, 27 are as one with the unloading start means, or lever element, 22 and/or with the retaining means 26 of the holding means 18, and/or with the means 24 for pushing the holding means 18 towards the product unloading position "B".
  • the resetting means are in the form of an elastic tab 27 which extends from the element defining the unloading start means, or lever element, 22 and/or the retaining means 28 of the holding means 18, and/or the means 24 for pushing the holding means 18 towards the product unloading position "B".
  • the elastic resetting tab 27 extends upwardly and is subjected to an elastic loading action by the activating action imparted to the triggering lever 22.
  • the elastic resetting tab 27 extends towards and against a corresponding inside wail 205 of the mounting means 200 of the product holding means 18, this wall being located at one end of the mounting means 200 close to the means for fastening to the drive means 16, that is, to the self same drive means 16.
  • the hook or tooth-like portion 26 has an inclined outside surface 26' for engaging a corresponding inclined surface 8526 for resetting and backward ly pushing the hook or tooth-like portion 26, specifically towards the means for fastening to the drive means 16, that is, towards the drive means 16 themselves, the inclined resetting surface 8526 being provided on the holding means 18, specifically on the base member 185 of the holding means 18 themselves and, more specifically, at the end of the protrusion 1853 which extends laterally from the base block 1850 of the holding means 18 themselves.
  • the means 20 for fixing to the drive means 16 comprise means 201 for fastening to the drive means 16 from which there extends an elongate mounting element 200 which extends transversely to the feed direction, that is, laterally of the drive means 16, there being provided, more specifically a first and a second elongate element 200, 200 which extend from the fastening means 201 on opposite sides of the drive means 16.
  • the mounting means 200 of the respective product holding means 18 are in the form of an elongate element 200 running transversely to the feed direction, or longitudinal direction, of the conveying means.
  • the elongate element 200 has a portion 202 which extends from the means 201 for fastening to the drive means 16, at a respective inside end of the elongate element 200, and an end portion 204 at the outside end of the elongate element 200 where the product holding means 18 are mounted in articulated manner.
  • the portion 202 which extends from the means 201 for fastening to the drive means 16, and the end portion 204, where the product holding means 18 are mounted in articulated manner, are connected to each other by a middle connecting portion 203, specifically where the means which trigger the unloading of the product by the supporting means 14 are mounted in articulated manner.
  • the portion 202 which extends from the means 201 for fastening to the drive means 16, extends perpendicularly beyond, in particular into the positive product feed stretch, at a height above that of the portion 204 where the product holding means 18 are mounted in articulated manner.
  • the portion 202 which extends from the means 201 for fastening to the drive means 16 and the portion 204 where the product holding means 18 are mounted in articulated manner, extend perpendicularly beyond, in particular into the positive product feed stretch, at a height above that of the middle connecting portion 203.
  • the pivoting pin 21 of the product holding means 18 is located at the perpendicular end, specifically at the upper end of the positive, longitudinal product feed stretch of the portion 204, where the product holding means 18 are mounted in articulated manner.
  • the elongate element 200 defining the mounting means of the respective product holding means 18 has a large internal cavity, specifically for receiving the means for triggering the unloading of the product from the holding means 18.
  • the fixing means 20, specifically the mounting means 200 of the product holding means 18 define means for stopping the rotation of the holding means 18, in particular at the angular end position "B" for unloading and/or at the angular end position "A" for supporting and conveying.
  • the elongate element 200 defining the mounting means of the respective product holding means 18 has a first and second elongate transverse wall 210, 21 1 which transversely delimit the elongate element 200 itself and which define, between them, a space for receiving the means for triggering the unloading of the product from the holding means 18.
  • the fixing means 20, specificaily the mounting means 200 of the product holding means 18 have a longitudinal end wall 212 which defines means for stopping the rotation of the holding means 18, in particular at the angular end position "B" for unloading and/or at the angular end position "A” for supporting and conveying.
  • the fixing means 20, specifically the mounting means 200 of the product holding means 18 have a middle wall 213, specifically a wall which is lowered relative to the end wall 212 and which defines means for stopping the rotation of the holding means 18, in particular at the angular end position "B" for unloading. More specifically, the face of the middle wail 213, which is engaged by the holding means 18, is opposed to the face of the longitudinal end wall 213 which is engaged by the product holding means 18 themselves.
  • the holding means 18, specifically the fixed and/or movable holding means 19, 181 define an overall product holding surface which, along the positive product feed and conveying stretch, is at a perpendicularly higher level than the portion, specifically the middle portion, 201 for fastening to the drive means 16.
  • the holding means 18, specifically the base member 185 of the self same holding means 18, and more specifically, the outwardly directed longitudinal end face 185' of the base block 1850 of the conveying means defines a surface for engaging and stopping the holding means 18 at the angular end position "A" for supporting and conveying.
  • the holding means 18, specifically the base member 185 of the self same holding means 18, and more specifically, the outwardly directed longitudinal end face 185' of the base block 1850 of the conveying means abuts, at the unloading angular end position "B", against the longitudinal end face 212, specifically abutting against the upper edge 212' of the self same longitudinal end wail 212 of the fixing means 20, that is, of the mounting means 200 of the product holding means 18.
  • the holding means 18, specifically the base member 185 of the self same holding means 18, and more specifically, the inside face of the end protrusion 1851 of the base block 1850 defines a surface for engaging and stopping the holding means 18 at the unloading angular end position "B", and which abuts against the middle wail 213, which, specifically, is lowered relative to the end wall 212 of the fixing means 20, that is, of the mounting means 200 of the product holding means 18.
  • the fixed or movable holding means 19, 181 specifically a respective roller and/or a respective end prong, that is, those directed towards the central part of the conveying means, extend, or are disposed, perpendicularly at the lowered middle portion 203 of the fixing means 20, that is, of the mounting means 200 of the product holding means 18.
  • the conveying means specifically the product holding means 18, comprise an opening 30 for the passage of a product scanning beam emitted by corresponding detecting means, the opening specifically defining means to allow the product scanning beam to pass through perpendicularly.
  • the opening, or passage means, 30 is made in the product holding means, specifically in the fixed holding means 19.
  • the opening, or passage means, 30 is made at the respective middle prong 191 , that is, at the crosspiece 194 thereof, and/or along the respective middle arm 1871 , preferably on the extension of the middle prong 191 .
  • the opening, or passage means, 30 is made at the respective supporting element 186, that is, at the crosspiece 186a thereof, and/or along the respective middle arm 1861 .
  • the opening, or passage means, 30 is made at the respective base member 185, preferably at the longitudinally inclined extension 1850b.
  • the singuiating means or station 1 1 for positioning a single product on a respective conveyor cup, and that it also rests on the next cup, is provided upstream of the product weight measuring means, or station, 13.
  • the product weight measuring means, or station, 13 comprises respective longitudinal guide means, specifically in the form of a first and a second opposite guides 131 , 131 on which the holding means run and rest, and perpendicularly extending transducer supporting means, specifically in the form of a first and a second supporting element 132, 132 for the guide means, the transducer supporting means 132, 132 extending above the guide means 131 , 131 .
  • the fixing means 20, specifically the portion 201 for fastening to the drive means 16 comprise a seat 201 a, specifically defined by opposite longitudinal panels 201 b, 201 b, and a horizontal panel 201 " disposed between them, of the fastening portion 201 , the seat 201 a being open at the bottom and extending into the longitudinal product feed stretches, and having a perpendicular extension such that it can be placed on the drive means 16 and on corresponding guide means 40 thereof, lying under the drive means 16, and more specifically, the guide means being in the form of corresponding longitudinal bar means 40.
  • the fixing means specifically the portion 201 for fastening to the drive means 16, comprise a seat 201 c, specifically defined by opposite longitudinal panels 201 d, 201 d of the fastening portion 201 , and a horizontal bottom panel 201 e, the seat 201 c being open at the bottom and extending into the longitudinal return stretches of the conveying means and being preferably aligned with the seat for placement on the drive means and/or on the corresponding guide means 40 in the longitudinal product feed stretches.
  • the seat 201 c defines means for placement on corresponding bottom guide means 41 , these guide means being in the form of corresponding longitudinal bar means 41 which are provided in the backward return stretch of the conveying means and are preferably positioned underneath the upper guide means 40 and vertically aligned therewith.
  • the angular rotation of the holding means 18 between the supporting and conveying position "A" and the product unloading position “B” is between 20° and 40°, preferably between 25° and 35° and, still more preferably, is around 30°.
  • the means to trigger unloading specifically the means 24 for pushing the holding means 18, accompany the angular rotation of, or engage, the product holding means 18 for a part of the angular rotation thereof between the supporting and conveying position "A” and the product unloading position "B", specifically for a part of the rotation which is less than half the angular rotation thereof between the supporting and conveying position "A” and the product unloading position "B".

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Specific Conveyance Elements (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un appareil (10) permettant de calibrer et de trier des produits respectifs, en particulier des fruits et des légumes, comprenant des moyens (12) de transport du produit respectif le long d'un trajet d'alimentation, ou longitudinal, respectif de l'appareil ; les moyens de transport (12) comprenant des moyens de support de produit respectifs (14), en particulier sous la forme d'une pluralité de coupelles de maintien de produit ; des moyens d'entraînement respectifs (16) servant à entraîner les moyens de support de produit ou coupelles (14), en particulier sous la forme d'une chaîne sans fin à maillons articulés, auxquels sont fixés les moyens de support de produit ou coupelles (14) ; les moyens de support de produit ou coupelles comprennent des moyens de maintien de produit (18), particulièrement sous la forme de premier et second moyens de maintien disposés des côtés opposés des moyens d'entraînement (16) ; et des moyens (20) servant à les fixer aux moyens d'entraînement (16), comprenant des moyens de montage (200) des moyens de maintien respectifs, comprenant particulièrement des premier et second moyens de montage des premier et second moyens de maintien de produit respectifs et s'étendant des côtés opposés des moyens d'entraînement (16) ; les moyens de maintien de produit (18) étant reliés de manière articulée aux moyens de fixation. Les moyens de maintien de produit (18) pivotent par rapport aux moyens de fixation (20) de façon à pouvoir se déplacer d'une première position normale (A) de support et de transport du produit à une seconde position (B) de dépôt et de déchargement du produit des moyens de support ou coupelles, et vice versa et, particulièrement, les moyens de pivotement (21) servant à faire pivoter les moyens de maintien de produit (18) par rapport aux moyens de fixation (20) sont disposés verticalement, ou sensiblement verticalement, au niveau d'une zone de barycentre, en particulier transversale, des moyens de maintien (18) eux-mêmes.
PCT/IB2017/058112 2016-12-27 2017-12-19 Appareil permettant de calibrer et de trier des produits respectifs, en particulier des fruits et des légumes WO2018122678A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IT202016000131358 2016-12-27
IT201600131358 2016-12-27

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2018122678A1 true WO2018122678A1 (fr) 2018-07-05

Family

ID=61148265

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IB2017/058112 WO2018122678A1 (fr) 2016-12-27 2017-12-19 Appareil permettant de calibrer et de trier des produits respectifs, en particulier des fruits et des légumes

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2018122678A1 (fr)

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN113083689A (zh) * 2021-02-27 2021-07-09 江西奕方农业科技有限公司 一种果粒自动化分级筛选设备
CN113479567A (zh) * 2021-07-14 2021-10-08 浙江大学 一种用于果蔬分选的滚轮式输送装置
US20220219207A1 (en) * 2021-01-11 2022-07-14 Durand-Wayland, Inc. Produce sorting systems and methods

Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2004002861A1 (fr) * 2002-06-26 2004-01-08 Colour Vision Systems Pty Ltd Installation pour la manipulation de fruits
EP1689536A1 (fr) * 2003-10-09 2006-08-16 FPS Food Processing Systems B.V. Support pour appareil de tri
CN101658843A (zh) * 2009-03-26 2010-03-03 杭州行地集团有限公司 用于水果分级的输送翻转及卸果装置
FR2960866A1 (fr) * 2010-06-03 2011-12-09 Maf Agrobotic Receptacle de convoyage basculant lateralement et a fleau transversal et dispositif de convoyage equipe de tels receptacles
WO2014038960A1 (fr) * 2012-09-06 2014-03-13 Compac Sorting Equipment Limited Actionneur de basculement pour un système de transporteur
WO2016166439A1 (fr) * 2015-04-17 2016-10-20 Maf Agrobotic Dispositif de transport d'objets et dispositif de convoyage et de pesée équipé de tels dispositifs de transport

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2004002861A1 (fr) * 2002-06-26 2004-01-08 Colour Vision Systems Pty Ltd Installation pour la manipulation de fruits
EP1689536A1 (fr) * 2003-10-09 2006-08-16 FPS Food Processing Systems B.V. Support pour appareil de tri
CN101658843A (zh) * 2009-03-26 2010-03-03 杭州行地集团有限公司 用于水果分级的输送翻转及卸果装置
FR2960866A1 (fr) * 2010-06-03 2011-12-09 Maf Agrobotic Receptacle de convoyage basculant lateralement et a fleau transversal et dispositif de convoyage equipe de tels receptacles
WO2014038960A1 (fr) * 2012-09-06 2014-03-13 Compac Sorting Equipment Limited Actionneur de basculement pour un système de transporteur
WO2016166439A1 (fr) * 2015-04-17 2016-10-20 Maf Agrobotic Dispositif de transport d'objets et dispositif de convoyage et de pesée équipé de tels dispositifs de transport

Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20220219207A1 (en) * 2021-01-11 2022-07-14 Durand-Wayland, Inc. Produce sorting systems and methods
US11529653B2 (en) * 2021-01-11 2022-12-20 Durand-Wayland, Inc. Produce sorting systems and methods
CN113083689A (zh) * 2021-02-27 2021-07-09 江西奕方农业科技有限公司 一种果粒自动化分级筛选设备
CN113083689B (zh) * 2021-02-27 2022-05-10 江西奕方农业科技有限公司 一种果粒自动化分级筛选设备
CN113479567A (zh) * 2021-07-14 2021-10-08 浙江大学 一种用于果蔬分选的滚轮式输送装置
CN113479567B (zh) * 2021-07-14 2022-05-20 浙江大学 一种用于果蔬分选的滚轮式输送装置

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
WO2018122678A1 (fr) Appareil permettant de calibrer et de trier des produits respectifs, en particulier des fruits et des légumes
JP7079982B2 (ja) 農産物用の改良された運搬および分類装置
US5573101A (en) Method and equipment for sorting goods hanging on hangers
US5029692A (en) Off-loading conveying system
US20150344228A1 (en) Pivot link
WO2013131141A1 (fr) Équipement de manipulation de fruits
CS271466B2 (en) Equipment for egg transportation
JP2016069190A (ja) 搬送装置、および搬送装置の搬送面から異物を分離するための方法
US2230139A (en) Loading machine
CN111348405A (zh) 一种倒瓶自动扶正装置
EP0345036B1 (fr) Convoyeur avec distributeur
KR20010041431A (ko) 농산물 선별 이송 메커니즘
EP2366278A2 (fr) Système de transporteur de fruits pour moissonneuse agricole, moissonneuse agricole qui inclut ce système et unité de transport de fruit simple pour ce système de transporteur
US5474167A (en) Off-loading conveying system
US8256608B2 (en) Conveyor belt with articulating members
US3980204A (en) Tray dispenser apparatus
EP2019056B1 (fr) Dispositif pour transporter des objets ronds
NL1024299C2 (nl) Transportinrichting.
KR101039714B1 (ko) 사행방지기구가 구비된 컨베이어장치
KR102122485B1 (ko) 체인 컨베이어
JP2008285328A5 (fr)
US6978882B2 (en) Device for automated manipulation of articles
JP6630481B2 (ja) 果菜自動選別装置
US6092644A (en) Transporting hanger for a hanging-type conveyor
US1217986A (en) Laundry-distributing system.

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 17837991

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 17837991

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1